Our Favorite Albums of 2018 So Far

Now a little over halfway through the year, we’re ready to talk about some of the best albums released this year so far. We loved the new albums from Post Malone and Drake, but you probably already know about those. Check out our list of the best 2018 releases you may not have heard yet.

Culture Abuse – Bay Dream

The punk rock five-piece Culture Abuse gained a quick following after the release of their first album Peach in 2016. In the following year, the band left California and toured the country with long-standing acts like The Story So Far and Joyce Manor. June of 2018 saw the release of Culture Abuse’s second LP Bay Dream. This album showcases a relaxed sound with straightforward songwriting. “Be kind to the bugs / be conscious of others / be careful with drugs / be kind to yourself / even though it gets hard” David Kelling sings against a calm drum beat in “Bee Kind To The Bugs.” The album is catchy and fun from front to back. Their second release is a success. We’re excited to see this band grow in the bay area scene for years to come.
Favorite song: “Dave’s Not Here (I Got The Stuff Man)”

Saba – CARE FOR ME

Released in April, Saba’s second LP showcases the rapper’s evolving creative vision. This ten song album is filled with deeply personal stories of growing up in West Chicago. Flowing effortlessly between rapping and singing beautiful melodies, this album paints a picture so vivid, you’ll feel like you grew up alongside the rapper in his grandmother’s house. If you like groovy bass, thoughtful lyrics, and a rapper that rides the beat with style, check out Saba’s newest creation.
Favorite song: “CALLIGRAPHY”

TV Girl – Death of a Party Girl

The fourth LP from TV Girl continues the band’s tradition of hypnotic pop with stories of lost love and loneliness. The album is breezy and has gentle samples that are easy to listen to. Existing TV Girl fans are going to get exactly what they want. Although the fourth release does little to push the band’s sound, there are no bad songs on the ten song album. This is a great album to pop in while you’re driving under the city lights. Click the photo below to stream the full album for free on Bandcamp.
Favorite song: “Drift Down”

Turnstile – Time & Space

The punk four-piece from Baltimore has been pushing the boundaries of American hardcore since their debut EP Pressure to Succeed in 2011. They combine fast-paced riffs and catchy rhythms to create a sound that makes it hard to sit still. Their live performance is one of the most high energy experiences you can have at a concert. Their 2018 release Time & Space continues to blend hardcore punk and a catchy upbeat sound. This album has made them one of the most commercially successful punk bands of all time. They are one of two metal acts on Jay Z’s Made In America festival later this year.
Favorite Song: “Moon”